IPOB Annual Remembrance Day Turns Bloody in Ozara, Oru West
On May 30, 2023, the annual Remembrance Day of Biafran heroes, celebrated by the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), turned bloody in Ozara, Oru West Local Government Area, as clashes broke out between IPOB members and Nigerian security forces.
According to an eyewitness, who chose to remain anonymous for security reasons, the event was disrupted by the Nigerian military and police while IPOB members were parading in honor of their fallen heroes from the Biafran War. The eyewitness reported that at least five people were killed and many others injured during the incident.
The police and army reportedly attempted to stop the procession, which led to a violent confrontation. A police van was damaged by angry IPOB members, while the police fired sporadically into the air in an attempt to disperse the crowd. Despite these efforts, the situation escalated, resulting in fatalities and arrests. Several IPOB members were taken away by security forces.
The Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Okoye Henry, confirmed the incident and stated that an investigation would be launched to identify and prosecute those responsible for the violence and unrest. He also named several individuals as key suspects and alleged IPOB leaders in Ozara: Mr. Charles Okeke (36), Mr. Emma Nwachukwu (50), Mr. Emeka Ubah (28), and Mr. Obi Chimezie Divine (44).
In response, Ozara community leader His Majesty ONYEKA Ononuju condemned what he described as extrajudicial killings by security forces. He called on the police to cease such actions and urged the government to ensure that those responsible for the violence are brought to justice.
